November 2026 Updates

I considered adding another evening class to the schedule, but since we have the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays coming up, I’ve decided to try this in 2027.  If you’d like more flexible days or times, please let me know.

With the next 2 months busy with family and food, please plan your training and healthy eating accordingly.  You’ll want to eat your favorite treats, which you can definitely do, but if you want to keep your weight in check, just make sure that the rest of your days are on target.

Training Options, Schedule & Pricing  

Monday / Wednesday/ Friday - Starts November 2

5:45 AM - 6:30 AM

12 sessions — $170

Tuesday / Thursday - Starts November 3

6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

7 sessions — $105

No Classes on Thanksgiving and November 27

Outdoor Location on N. Lake Ave near the Pasadena/Altadena border

Best,

Coop

October Boot Camp: Strong Through the Fall

October Boot Camp: Strong Through the Fall

If you've been in Altadena lately, I'm sure you've seen a lot of building going on. Our house is still months away, but now I can at least imagine it being finished.

I hope that if the fire has affected you, things are looking brighter and that you may be over the biggest hurdles.

If you've gotten knocked off the rails, now is your time to get back to training. Get back to those healthy habits, whether on your own or with us. I honestly don't care which you choose; I just want you to commit.

Fall is a great time to recommit. Don't wait for January.

Show up.
Do the work.
Be strong for you and for the people who count on you.

And if you know someone who could use a friendly push, please forward this to them. Most of my clients over the years have come from people like you passing the word along, and I'm grateful for every one.

October Boot Camp Details

Monday / Wednesday / Friday, starting Friday, October 2
5:45–6:30 AM
13 sessions: $175

Tuesday / Thursday, starting Thursday, October 1
6:00–6:45 PM
9 sessions: $145

One quick favor, evening crew
A few of you have asked about adding a third evening session each week. I'm seriously considering it, but I need to know which day would actually work before I commit. Please let me know.

Ready to join? Reply to this email or text me at (626) 818-0827, and I'll save your spot. New to Boot Camp? Text me, and I'll send you a quick health form before your first session.

Make the most of today,
Coop

September 2026 Newsletter

September sessions are here.

Heads up: no classes on Labor Day, September 7th, or September 17th and 18th.

Morning crew: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 5:45 to 6:30 A.M., starting September 2nd. 12 sessions for 165 dollars.

Evening crew: Tuesday, Thursday, 6:00 to 6:45 P.M., starting September 1st. 8 sessions for 135 dollars.

We train outdoors on North Lake Avenue, right on the Pasadena-Altadena border.

Contact me to register or with any questions.

Contacting Me

I “lost” a potential client the other day because it took me over ten minutes to return his phone call.  When I called him back, he had already called another place and decided to train with them.

I realize that a lot of the marketing you see these days promises and tries to convince you that they have the faster solution to your “pain”. Your “pain” being the desire to lose fat, etc.

In contrast, my job is to help you create lifelong habits.  To show you by example that consistency and working through obstacles pay off.

I'm always happy when I see it “click” with clients, when they realize that they are done looking for shortcuts or fads to solve their problems.  I can almost see a burden being lifted from their shoulders when they are resolved to put in the hard and consistent work.

Make the most of this day🌞

Clarify, Simplify, and Commit.

Clarify, simplify, and commit.

I recently read this from Seth Godin, and it really hit me how important this is when it comes to exercise and fitness.

Decide that your health is really important to you. You don’t need to read another article or watch another TikTok video to know that taking care of yourself should be a priority.

Simplify how you will reach your goal. Know that the basics work. Lift weights that challenge you. Get in the minimal steps each day. Drink sufficient water. Eat as close to nature as possible. Eliminate the scrolling and confusion that social media wants to hook you with.

Commit; you don’t need more; you need action on the basics.

An Update From Coop

It's been a while since I've sent an update, and honestly, a lot has happened, so I wanted to reach out personally.

After the Eaton Fire, things changed a lot around here, for me and for a lot of you too. Bootcamp attendance took a hit, life got rearranged, and I know plenty of you have been dealing with your own version of that upheaval. I get it, and I've been thinking about you.

Here's the thing though: I'm still here, still coaching, still doing the work I've done for over 30 years. The boot camps are running, private sessions are going, and if you've been away for a while, I’d love to see you back training with us.

Also, quick practical note: my phone number has changed. Save this one so we stay connected going forward. New number is (626) 818-0827

If you've been thinking about getting back into it, now's a great time. I've got open spots and would genuinely love to see you again.

Best,

Coop

Are You Rebuilding? (August 2026 Newsletter)

As you may have seen on my social media, serious rebuilding on our home has finally begun.

To be honest, the only thing keeping me sane throughout all this fire, insurance, permits, contractors, etc, is my own training.

I think it’s in my DNA to buckle down, eat better, and keep up with my training when the going gets tough.  I'm fortunate in that when I'm stressed in life, I seek healthy outlets.  I wish more people could see how beneficial clean eating and training are.  I feel that you’ve got to put your health first to be strong for whatever challenges come at you.

If you aren't putting your health first, I encourage you to take this seriously and do so.  

Be strong for you.

Be strong for your family.

Commit today.

Join us at Boot Camp.  Train for life.  Workout to improve your balance, and to aquire real world strength that transfers into your life.

And please share this with someone you know who could use a kind “push” to take better care of themselves.  It’s not a big time commitment; it's more about consistency.

August Boot Camp Details

August 2026

Monday / Wednesday/ Friday - Starts August 3

5:45 AM - 6:30 AM

13 sessions — $175

Tuesday / Thursday - Starts August 4

6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

8 sessions — $135

Please contact me with any questions.

Best,

Coop

Less Optimizing and Hacks, and More Doing

Less optimizing and hacks, and more doing.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve gravitated towards zen-like writings; things like “chop wood, carry water” come to mind.

So I’m going to keep this newsletter simple and to the point.

I share this as a reminder to myself, as a trainer, it’s easy to get caught up watching YouTube videos on supplements, exercise protocols, sleep, and diet protocols.

This hit me when my daughter shared some pictures of our grandkids enjoying an outing to a cool, clear river in the beautiful mountains of Washington State.  I saw the appreciation and enjoyment on my 4-year-old grandson's face. He wasn't optimizing his time in nature.  He was just being present and getting the love and energy back from nature.  

I also experienced this as a bobcat walked through our yard. I would usually pull out my phone and record it, but this time I didn't have my phone with me. I could really see the bobcat.  We both looked each other in the eyes. There was a kind of connection that was felt; it knew that I didn't mean it any harm, so it paused, then slowly walked along.

I challenge you to focus on the basics.  

Look at the big impact areas: sleep/recovery, diet, and movement.

Are your daily habits bringing you closer to your health and fitness goals?  

Journal or keep simple notes. Where do you need to improve?

Then, do the work.

If you need some direction on what work needs to be done, or help with consistency of developing these healthy habits, please contact me.  I can coach you in person or online.

July Boot Camp Details

Monday / Wednesday/ Friday - Starts July 1

5:45 AM - 6:30 AM

13 sessions — $175

Tuesday / Thursday - Starts July 2

6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

9 sessions — $145

• No Classes on July 3

Make the most of this day,

Coop

Are you Your Own Architect?

With all the construction and rebuilding going on in our Altadena neighborhood, I'm reminded of how important a solid, well-planned foundation is.

I think a lot of people approach health and fitness in haphazard ways. They follow influencers or celebrities who are trying to sell them something or a product promising them unrealistic results.

I encourage you to focus on the “big rocks” as the late Stephen Covey would say.  The big areas of sleep and recovery, whole foods and proper hydration, and exercises and movement that challenge and push you out of your comfort zone.

There's nothing extreme or complicated about this.  

Be the architect of your own health — build it with intention.

June 2026 Newsletter

Pasadena and Altadena, CA — Certified Personal Trainer since 1995

I've been training people for over thirty years.

No gimmicks. No shortcuts. Just fitness that works.

Most people are more capable than they think. My job is to help them find that out — through improving consistency, overcoming obstacles, and training that prepares them for real life.

Small outdoor group fitness classes in Altadena. One-on-one and virtual training available.

This is what I do. You're welcome to join me.

If that sounds like what you're looking for, reach out.

→ Contact me here

If 5:45 AM is Too Early, Read This

I’m considering adding a second morning boot camp time and wanted to gauge interest before I open it up.

New Time Option (MWF): 6:45 – 7:30 AM

This would be the same structured, results-focused training—just slightly later for those who can’t make the 5:45 AM class.

If you’ve ever thought:

• “5:45 AM is just too early.”

• “I’d train if it were a little later.”

This is for you.

I’ll open this time slot if I have enough committed interest to make it worthwhile.

If you’d seriously consider this time, reply and let me know.

—Stephen

May 2026 Newsletter

This time of year is perfect for training with us. The mornings are comfortable, and the evening classes are sunny without being too hot. It’s one of the best windows to build consistency and momentum.

At the same time, I want to challenge something I see more and more often.

We’re living in an age of constant distraction and endless screen time. It’s easy to spend hours consuming content while slowly drifting away from real physical effort and real human interaction.

Take a close look at your habits. Are you investing enough time in your mental and physical health? Because consuming more information does not create change. Doing the work does. Results come from movement, resistance, discipline, and consistency. Put down your devices and get active.

What’s become clear over time is that the real challenge isn’t knowing what to do for good health—it’s committing to it.

It truly saddens me to see people becoming more disconnected from each other. We are not meant to live in isolation or behind screens all day.

The smiles, laughter, and encouragement at Boot Camp are what make my work meaningful. There is real energy in training together that you simply cannot replicate alone.

Come join us. Train your body, clear your mind, and reconnect with people who are committed to getting stronger—physically and mentally. Come and build muscle, improve your balance, and develop the stamina you need for life.

May Boot Camp Details

Monday / Wednesday/ Friday - Starts May 1

5:45 AM - 6:30 AM

12 sessions — $165

Tuesday / Thursday - Starts April 5

6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

8 sessions — $135

$20 Drop-In

Contact me with any questions.

Make the most of this day,

Coop

April 2026 Newsletter

This is why I love what I do…

“I’ve been attending Stephen’s boot camp for 18 months, and it’s been a wonderful experience. The group is supportive, with no competition or judgment, and every workout can be tailored to your ability.

When I got serious about losing weight, I added better nutrition and walking—and within a few months, I was 20 pounds lighter, stronger, and full of energy. I couldn’t have done it without the encouragement and support.”
— R. Wasserman

★★★★★ Google Review

Special Spring Break Session

No training April 6–13
Classes resume Monday, April 14

Monday / Wednesday / Friday
Starts April 1
5:45 AM – 6:30 AM
9 sessions — $150

Tuesday / Thursday
Starts April 2
6:00 PM – 6:45 PM
7 sessions — $120

Please contact me with any questions or to sign up.

March 2026 Newsletter

Is that it for winter?

The early mornings and evenings at Boot Camp are very pleasant these days...so no excuses.

As I get older and see people have health problems or pass away, it's a strong reminder to me to make the most of each day.  As a young person, my decisions and procrastination didn't seem like a big deal, but now I appreciate the finite time we have here more.  Decisions and action matter.

I’m not naive enough to think that exercise and better eating will shield me 100% from disease and promise life extension, but I do know that I feel stronger, less stressed, more positive, and resilient because of my commitment to healthy living each day.

It doesn’t take hours each day.  It’s more about executing a smart plan with consistency and discipline.

Audit yourself, and be honest.  Examine your daily decisions.  Are they bringing you closer to better health?

March Boot Camp Classes

Monday / Wednesday/ Friday - Starts March 2

5:45 AM - 6:30 AM

13 sessions — $175

Tuesday / Thursday - Starts March 3

6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

9 sessions — $135

If you need some help, contact me. And...make the most of today,

Coop

Rebuilding Altadena

It’s been over a year since the Eaton Fire in Altadena. Many residents are trying to rebuild — not just their homes, but their health and sense of stability.

I’ve lived in Altadena for more than 26 years. As a local fitness trainer, I’ve worked with hundreds of people from this community. Over the past year, I’ve seen firsthand the frustration, exhaustion, and emotional toll this disaster has taken.

Rebuilding isn’t only about permits and construction. It’s about restoring your strength — physically and mentally. Stress has a cost. Neglecting your health adds to that cost.

As we rebuild Altadena, pause a little bit and offer some kindness and encouragement to your neighbors.  Take care of each other.

February 2026 Newsletter

Welcome to February

There’s so much buzz and hype about A.I. these days and it’s touted as the next big thing.

But when it comes to achieving your fitness goals the same old things are still key.

1. Getting sufficient and quality sleep

2. Training consistently and with a smart plan

3. Eating quality wholesome food in proper amounts for your activity level.

I don’t find a lot of people who can push themselves on their own. It’s uncomfortable doing it alone and easy to create or find excuses.

For those who train with me one-on-one or in the boot camps, there is encouragement, laughs, and either me or my other clients to hold you accountable.

If you’ve gotten off to a rough start in 2026 and would like some direction, join us.

February 2026 Camps

Monday, Wednesday, Friday Mornings

5:45 AM to 6:30 AM

12 classes for $165

Tuesday, Thursday Evenings

6 PM to 6:45 PM

8 classes for $135

Thanks,

Coop

January 2026 Boot Camps Begin January 5

This group from the evening Boot Camp and I just completed the Altadena Forever Run.

It was great to start the morning with these clients. Boot Camp is a lot more than just going through the movements. Clients showing up, encouraging, and supporting each other make my day.

Join us in January and commit to improving yourself. Classes are only 45 minutes long, either twice or three times per week. Do this for yourself.

Training Options, Schedule & Pricing — January 2026

Monday / Wednesday/ Friday - Starts Jan 5

5:45 AM - 6:30 AM

12 sessions — $180

Tuesday / Thursday - Starts Jan 6

6:00 PM - 6:45 PM

8 sessions — $135

Train all sessions in January — $250

Times and Location

AM: 5:45–6:30 am

PM: 6:00–6:45 pm

Outdoor Location on N. Lake Ave near the Pasadena/Altadena border

Contact me with any questions.

December 2025 Newsletter - Finish Strong & A Note of Gratitude

Finish Strong & A Note of Gratitude

This year sure has had its challenges—most notably the fire earlier this year—but through it all, I’ve been deeply grateful for each of you who continued to show up, train hard, and support not just your own goals, but the spirit of this community. I appreciate your commitment and am very thankful to those of you who have trained with me this year.

We still have a few sessions left this year, and I want to encourage you to finish strong. Every class is a gift—a chance to improve, challenge yourself, and celebrate what your body can do. 

Make the most of each one.

December Camps - No Classes Dec 24, 25, 26, 31

• MWF AM Boot Camp: 11 sessions — $165

• Tue/Thu Boot Camp: 8 sessions — $120

Your consistency is what creates results.

Each session is an opportunity to honor your commitment, push a little further, and step into the New Year stronger than ever.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

Train hard, stay strong, and finish the year with everything you’ve got.

With gratitude,
Coop

P.S. I’ve signed up for the Altadena Forever Run on Jan 4th, 2026, and have created a team, Boot Camp Pasadena.  I’d love to run with you.  Challenge yourself, and join us. https://www.altadenaforeverrun.com/

45 Days Till January 1, 2026

Only 45 days till 2026.

How will you spend this time? Skipping your training? Staying up late, drinking, and partying?

In reviewing past years, you can be sure that the holidays can be stressful and busy, and often exercise and healthy eating fall to the wayside.

How about this year, you actually get a head start. So, when these 45 days pass, you'll arrive at the new year in excellent shape.

Start now.

Plan your week. Put exercise into your calendar. Plan your meals.

Execute.

If you need direction or help, contact me.

Take action,

Coop

November Boot Camp Details

Don't let the holidays disrupt your health.

Think of these last 3 months of the year as a head start for 2026.

While many people will be overindulging, you can be making progress towards better health.

This year, I'll be in town for Thanksgiving, so I WILL be holding a workout the day after.

We are still grateful to St. Elizabeth Church in Altadena for allowing us to hold our training there. Join us!

MWF mornings 5:45 am - 6:30 am

$165 for 12 Classes

Tu/Thur 6:00 pm - 6:45 pm

7 Classes for $125

"You reap what you sow, so what seeds will you plant and when?"

Take care,

Coop